Ep. 30: Create Beautiful Rooftop Gardens

Richard Heller, the founder, CEO, and CFO of Greener By Design, has worked as a design/build contractor creating some of the most beautiful rooftop gardens in Manhattan. In this episode he discusses everything from his design philosophy to unique construction and production techniques to maintaining a maintenance program for his high maintenance clients. He even tells us the best ways to get out of parking tickets and how to make his favorite childhood snack called "mud cups."Heller is known as a real character, a good friend and just a lot of fun. So if you are interested in Green Roofs and Green Walls you should listen in.Heller grew up in the heart of New York City and has more than 30 years of experience working in all areas of the landscape industry including; interior plants and orchids, floral design, as well as landscape design, installation and maintenance. He is a Landscape Industry Certified Manager & Technician and writes for The Pelham Weekly and the NY Landscape Contractor newspapers. Richard provides consulting and public speaking services regarding sustainable landscaping, greenroofs, and greenwalls.Greener by Design, Inc. became the company name in late 2005 following 26 years as Mornhurst Gardens, Co. Inc. Ann Roberts Levine, Heller's mother, founded Mornhurst Gardens in 1979.They are a family business in a broader sense of the word. As a company, they are invested in creating a better world not just making a quick buck. In addition, they treat their employees like family, by striving to obtain affordable health insurance, and by training and providing employment opportunities even during the slow months. They provide both weekly and monthly safety training meetings and have won safety awards over the past five years. They have a no pesticide approach to land care that is based on Integrated Pest Management, natural controls, and selecting the appropriate plant for each location.For more information, visit Greener By Design at www.greenerdesigns.com.